Wet and Wild Scarecrows

Another week of wet weather but at least it stayed dry on Monday so I could tidy up the Artful Garden and take down the Christmas display. Uno Recyclo had suffered in the gales which were strong enough to bring down a large oak tree near the church. He has gone into retirement but will be back in the Spring with a new improved vehicle that again will be exclusive and unique.

All the scarecrows are now wearing their raincoats to protect them from the weather.

Charlie Barley has a agricultural green raincoat that is a good fit.

Grooving on down

Crazy Maisie has put on weight over the Christmas period so there is a severe strain on her buttons.

Too many cakes

Looby Loo is fed up of getting her new sparkle wig wet. She is finding it hard to think of things to smile about.

Wet wet wet 

Boozy Floozy is glad that her mac is a good size and she can hide her wine glass up her sleeve.

Pockets for storage of the odd tipple

Bobby Barley likes his football poncho but he has had to use a few stones to keep it anchored.

Back off hen

The hen has pinched Bobby Barley's pom pom hat.

Incy wincy spider

I have cut back the cardoons as they are already sending up new leaves. The stems are so strong they had to be cut with a saw.

Dried cardoons look like something from outer space

I have put some of the cardoon heads on the wall near the gate.

Cardoons are often mistaken for thistles

One lantern and wreath remain near the gate.

The daffodil bulbs are just beginning to appear

I love the penguin I saw in Hexham Abbey shop window.

Pick up a penguin

The fox is made from wood and wool.

 A fox in a wooly jumper

On Wednesday morning as I travelled on the outskirts of Kirkoswald the sun was illuminating a field.

Golden glows

The setting sun creates shadows on the hills.

Illuminated clouds

The river Eden is still very full and fast flowing.

Looking towards Lazonby bridge